2. The CNY date changes every year!
Instead of going with the solar (Gregorian) calendar like Thanksgiving and Christmas, CNY goes according to the Lunar Calendar, hence is also called Lunar New Year. The CNY starts on January 1st and lasts until the 15th (the full moon) on the Lunar Calendar.
3. No cutting of hair, nails or food during the first days of Chinese New Year
Before the CNY begins, hair and nail must be cut, and food must be prepared in advance to avoid “cutting off” the good luck that is flowing in during the holiday.
4. Firecrackers and fireworks are a must to scare off evil spirits
As the legend goes, in the beginning of every year, a monster called Nian appears in the neighborhood, eating villagers and destroying their houses. Most mainland Chinese believe that the flash and bang of firecrackers and fireworks scare away demons and evil ghosts. However, many cities across China nowadays are banned from the use of fireworks and firecrackers for the sake of safety and environmental protection!
5. Chinese New Year is the key to the whole year’s fortune
To hold on to CNY fortune throughout the year, Chinese avoid certain behaviors during the holiday, such as cutting of hair, nail or food mentioned above. Spring cleaning must be done before the CNY, as using the brooms and sweeping out the trash ae regarded as sweeping out good luck too. No negative emotions, and most importantly, no lending and borrowing money during CNY. All debts must be paid off before the new year begins or bad luck will entangle throughout the year!
Last but not least, during the holiday, do not forget to eat some dumplings, as they bring you good fortunes! Happy Chinese New Year, we wish you a year fully loaded with happiness and prosperity!
A sweet reminder from APAS: During the spring break, our office will be closed on February 1st after 12pm, and will reopen on February 11.